Institute

The Fraunhofer Institute for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques FHR is one of Europe’s leading institutions in the field of radar and sensor systems. Its work focuses on technologies that deliver reliable information even under complex conditions — whether in defense and security, in space, or in industrial applications. By combining high‑frequency engineering, modern sensor technology, and intelligent signal processing, the institute develops systems that provide precise situational awareness and open new operational possibilities.

Expertise across the entire value chain

The institute supports partners from industry, research, and the public sector from the initial idea to mission‑ready systems. Its portfolio ranges from studies and consulting to development, prototyping, and small‑series production. The focus is always on technological maturity, economic feasibility, and long‑term viability. This enables solutions to be efficiently transferred into market‑ready products in close cooperation with clients.

Fraunhofer FHR also provides transparent insights into its structure and development: information on organizational setup is available in the organizational chart, while the institute’s history illustrates its long‑standing expertise and continuous evolution.

Technological know‑how from microwave to terahertz

Research activities cover electromagnetic sensing from the microwave range up to frequencies in the lower terahertz spectrum. A particular focus lies on high‑resolution imaging methods as well as precise distance and position measurement. The systems developed achieve millimeter‑level resolution and are designed for demanding operational scenarios — such as poor visibility or extreme environmental conditions.

Radar and millimeter‑wave sensors from Fraunhofer FHR operate reliably in smoke, fog, or high temperatures, making them key technologies for safety‑critical applications as well as industrial processes. At the same time, advances in miniaturization and digitalization enable deployment in an increasing number of fields — from navigation and traffic to quality assurance and non‑destructive testing. These capabilities strengthen modern radar sensing, enhance millimeter‑wave technology, and support robust industrial monitoring.

Interdisciplinary and application‑oriented

Fraunhofer FHR’s strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach: expertise from physics, engineering, and computer science flows into integrated solutions. Technologies range from classical waveguides to highly integrated silicon‑germanium chips operating at frequencies up to 300 GHz. This breadth opens up diverse opportunities for customized development projects.

Decades of experience — particularly in cooperation with the German Federal Ministry of Defence and industrial partners — form the foundation for practical, mission‑oriented innovation. With more than 400 employees and an annual budget of around €48 million, the institute offers a powerful infrastructure and extensive development capacities. In addition, the advisory board provides insight into the institute’s strategic guidance, while the Fraunhofer alliances offer an overview of networks and collaborations in which FHR is actively involved.

Shaping innovation together

With its locations in Wachtberg — including the main site in Werthhoven and the Villip I and Villip II facilities — and its close ties to academic research environments at the universities in Aachen, Bochum, Siegen, Kassel, and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Fraunhofer FHR is embedded in a region of exceptional scientific density. This proximity enables many employees to integrate their academic activities directly into research, teaching, and talent development, strengthening the continuous exchange between the institute and universities. The sites thus function not only as research centers but also as hubs for cooperation, knowledge transfer, and joint innovation projects.